My dearest cousin had surgery yesterday for her colon cancer.

[EFerrari]

She's Andy's opposite so I don't really know anything. Andy used to tell me every single detail and sometimes more than once and if he didn't, his partner was kind enough to keep me updated. My cousin put me on a list her brother fulfilled and he only told me how long the surgery was, that the tumor had been reduced by pre-op therapies and that she'll be in hospital for the next five days.

She is the closest thing I have to a sister; we grew up together. It's hard to wait for answers to questions I can't ask. Oh, well. crossing everything.

:hug:
:grouphug:

[Longhorn]

1. I hope they were able to get it all and end it right there.

:hug:

[EFerrari]

2. Thank you, Longhorn. n/t

[EFerrari]

3. They couldn't get it all. And she cheerfully writes to me that

they will get it post op.

Is that even possible?

She's about as positive as anyone could be, so that's outstanding.

[Longhorn]

4. She probably means they will get it with radiation and/or chemotherapy.

In my case, they couldn't even do surgery since it had spread from my cervix to my lungs. Surgery is the best way to get it all if it's self-contained. Radiation can work if it has spread locally. Chemotherapy is systemic and goes after it anywhere in the body (though not always into the brain.) Anyway, I'm glad she's optimistic and hope that the next treatment works. :hug:

[EFerrari]

5. She sounds very good. I feel very frightened right now.

Maybe that's to be expected. Oh well, ride it out, me.

Thanks, Longhorn.

[Longhorn]

6. It's hard not to be frightened.

I think it's often harder on the loved ones than it is on the patient. The unknown is scary but it truly is UNKNOWN. The only thing we know about your cousin is that she will have to be treated and while they're often not as bad as they used to be, they aren't fun either. But the outcome hasn't been determined and there's lots of good medicine out there.

You're letting her know that you love her and you're sending her all the positive vibes you can muster. I know she appreciates it. Continue to expect the best and help both of you remain optimistic. It's the only way to live! :hug: